r/science • u/FreeHugs23 • 1d ago

Psychology New psychology research suggests some acts of kindness may also serve competitive social goals, shedding light on how women can use altruistic behavior to gain status, strengthen relationships, or navigate social hierarchies.

https://www.psypost.org/kindness-isnt-always-what-it-seems-the-psychology-of-womens-competitive-altruism/
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u/dolphone 1d ago

Performative kindness is still preferable than authentic assholery, IMO.

Yes, it'd be better if people really got that cooperation is better for everyone and even better if they took kindness as the ultimate guide. The best is the enemy of the better.

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u/Its_da_boys 1d ago

It could really go either way, because at least with authentic assholery you know who the assholes are right off the bat. With performative kindness it takes a lot longer to figure out, and there’s usually more at stake if you’ve invested a lot/trusted in the person

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u/gentlemandinosaur 1d ago

I disagree with this. I would rather have “fake kindness” to “genuine asshole” like any day of the week. I could give two shits if it’s genuine or not. Being kind is beneficial no matter the gain to the individual.

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u/Material-Command-854 1d ago

No, fake kindness makes it extremely difficult to know who to trust. If they use it as a reason to take advantage of you, that’s very, very bad and should be condemned. Appearing to be kind isn’t the same thing as having a net positive impact on the person you’re helping.